Penybont: Aldershot and Sutton United stars transfer to Conference League outfit
Ryan Hill has joined Penybont from Aldershot Town, who were disappointed to lose him. (Image: Lewis Mitchell)
Penybont have continued their busy summer recruitment drive by securing two significant additions from the National League, including the captain of Aldershot Town.
With their third UEFA Conference League campaign fast approaching, Rhys Griffiths’ side are strengthening their squad ahead of a two-legged clash against Andorran outfit FC Santa Coloma in July.
The Cymru Premier European Play-Off will host the first leg at Cardiff City Stadium on July 9 before travelling to Andorra for the return fixture on July 16.
Penybont Squad Undergoing Major Summer Transformation
The squad that earned European qualification has already undergone considerable change during the summer transfer window, with several departures and new arrivals reshaping the group ahead of the club’s biggest challenge yet.
The latest recruits are Ryan Hill and Eduino Vaz, who join from National League clubs Aldershot Town and Sutton United, respectively.
Aldershot Town Captain Ryan Hill arrives
One of the standout additions is versatile midfielder Ryan Hill, who arrives after Penybont agreed a transfer fee with Aldershot Town.
The 28-year-old captained the Shots for much of the 2024/25 season and enjoyed an impressive campaign, registering nine goals and five assists in 42 appearances across all competitions. His performances earned him the Player of the Year award at the Recreation Ground.
Hill initially joined Aldershot from Dagenham & Redbridge and quickly established himself as a key figure both on and off the pitch.
While primarily a central midfielder, the former Stoke City youngster has demonstrated his versatility throughout his career, featuring on both wings as well as at left-back and right-back. Previous clubs include Eastleigh, Beaconsfield Town and Hampton & Richmond Borough.
Aldershot Manager Reacts to Hill Departure
Aldershot manager Scott Davies admitted losing Hill was disappointing but understood the player’s decision to move on.
“It’s totally understandable from Ryan’s position but frustrating from our point of view at the same time,” he said to the official club website.
“Myself and the club made it clear that we weren’t in a position to hand out new and improved contracts this summer to players that have remained at the football club.
“Hilly is someone that I’ve known for a long time, so the conversations were amicable and pretty straightforward, and he leaves on very good terms.
“I know that he was a fans’ favourite and rightly so, as he’s someone that wears his heart on his sleeve and scored a number of important goals last season.
“He moves on with our very best wishes. We thank him for his time at the club and hope that he has a really successful time in Wales with Penybont FC.”
Penybont Add Eduino Vaz to Defensive Options
Hill’s new teammate at Penybont, Eduino Vaz, arrives from Sutton United and adds further depth to Rhys Griffiths’ squad ahead of their European campaign.
The 24-year-old left-back is also capable of operating further up the pitch, offering valuable versatility on the flank.
Vaz spent much of last season on loan in the National League South with Hampton & Richmond Borough, where he contributed an assist after joining in January. He had made four appearances for Sutton United in the opening half of the campaign before heading out on loan.
His previous clubs include Chelmsford City FC, Barnsley FC, and Aveley FC. Vaz was among several new signings who featured for the club in their 4–0 pre-season win over Cardiff Draconians, with Chris Venables scoring twice. Marinho Manga also found the net against his former club, while Vaz added another goal to complete the scoring.
The Bridgend side has also brought in Morgan Weaver, Dan Jefferies, and Tom Mehew this summer.
In terms of departures, long-serving Kane Owen has joined newly promoted Trefelin, Clayton Green has signed for Haverfordwest County, and goalkeeper Archie Matthews has moved to Paulson.
